On the night of September 12, Dr. Julian Bailes, a prominent neurosurgeon and concussion expert, was watching football when he saw Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa suffer yet another head injury. Tagovailoa was seen lying on the ground, exhibiting the fencing response, which is an involuntary reaction that occurs after a brain injury. Bailes compared this incident to a similar one from September 29, 2022, when Tagovailoa displayed a similar reaction after a concussion during a game.
Bailes was consulted by the Dolphins regarding Tagovailoa’s series of concussions two years ago, eventually leading to the quarterback sitting out the remainder of the season after a Christmas Day incident against Green Bay. He pointed to Tagovailoa’s playing style as a contributing factor to his recurring injuries, stating, “He stuck his head in there without thinking in that split second.”
Tagovailoa has now experienced three diagnosed concussions over two years along with another head injury that influenced changes in the NFL’s concussion protocols. His health has been the center of extensive scrutiny this season, with pundits questioning his future in the sport and urging him to consider retirement. On Monday, Tagovailoa expressed optimism about returning to practice on Wednesday, aiming to be fit to play against the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday. He also stated that he would not wear a Guardian Cap for added protection, citing it as his “personal choice.”
“I love this game, and I love it to the death of me,” Tagovailoa affirmed, adding that he has been symptom-free since the day after his latest injury and has been medically cleared to play. His intention to continue playing has raised concerns among experts.
Dr. Bailes, who did not consult on Tagovailoa’s current condition, emphasized the need to consider whether Tagovailoa requires an extended period of rest. He cautioned that having multiple concussions within a short timeframe is a significant risk factor that must be evaluated seriously.
Experts across the board have varied opinions regarding Tagovailoa’s future in football. While some do not recommend retirement, they note the complications involved in determining which athletes should cease playing. Following the latest incident, voices for retirement have grown louder, including commentary from Hall of Famer Shannon Sharpe and former Dallas Cowboys receiver Dez Bryant, both advocating for Tagovailoa’s long-term health.
As discussions around Tagovailoa continue, the focus has shifted towards whether he can protect himself while helping the Dolphins improve their season. His journey has become emblematic of the ongoing challenges and risks associated with football, especially concerning head injuries.
Despite suffering injuries earlier in his career, including a significant hip injury and multiple concussions in college, Tagovailoa pressed forward, even training in jiu-jitsu to reduce the likelihood of future injuries. His high school coach, Vinny Passas, remarked on Tagovailoa’s fierce competitive spirit, emphasizing the strong bonds football players develop and Tagovailoa’s desire not to let his team down.
Concerns regarding long-term consequences of concussions loom large. Various experts underscore that brain injuries can have irreversible effects, and repeated head trauma is increasingly recognized as a serious health hazard. Bailes and others highlight the complexity in advising young athletes about the risks associated with continued play.
Former NFL quarterback Don Strock reflected on his own experiences with concussions during his career, noting that protocols then were far less stringent than today. At 73, he is still in South Florida, observing health-related changes among former teammates and expressing uncertainty about whether he would choose to play if faced with Tagovailoa’s circumstances.
As Tagovailoa’s return to action seems on the horizon, many continue to monitor not only his performance on the field but also the potential ramifications of his ongoing battle with concussions on his long-term health.